Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon is a delicious side dish that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the richness of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and the smokiness of bacon. Here’s a simple recipe to make this tasty dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4-6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet or pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the cooked bacon from the pan, leaving the bacon grease behind. Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Cook the Brussels Sprouts:
- In the same pan with the bacon grease, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook the Brussels sprouts over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and start to develop a nice brown color, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the Brussels sprouts from the pan and set them aside.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is fully melted. You can adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more cream if needed.
- If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the cooked Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon to the pan with the creamy sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring the Brussels sprouts are coated with the sauce. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to heat everything through.
- Serve:
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Enjoy!
- Serve your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts with Bacon as a side dish alongside your favorite main course.
This dish is a flavorful and indulgent way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, making them appealing even to those who might not be big fans of this vegetable. It’s perfect for holiday dinners or as a comforting side dish any time of the year.